Weddings and Events
Patrycja and Jeff’s love story began when a heated game of cards brought them together. From Chicago to California, they dreamed of a beach wedding. Discover why they wouldn’t settle on anywhere but Casa Romantica for their wedding day.
Patrycja and Jeff’s love story began six years ago when Patrycja, a Chicago native, visited friends in Orange County to scout out the area for a potential move. During her visit, a mutual friend of Patrycja and Jeff decided to play matchmaker and invited Jeff over for an evening. Although the two were initially reserved, a heated game of cards turned out to be the perfect ice-breaker for them. They couldn’t stop talking with one another.
Back in Chicago, Patrycja found Jeff on social media. They began dating after Jeff visited her there, and within a few months, Patrycja relocated to Orange County. A few years after their first date, Jeff and Patrycja (along with new pup Maverick) moved in together. Last year, Jeff proposed to Patrycja at their home with Maverick by his side.
“I am so grateful to be marrying my best friend,” says Patrycja.
Patrycja, a first-generation American whose family is Polish, was glad to plant roots in southern California. They couple knew that their dream of a beach wedding would be the perfect way to make it official. Patrycja found photos of Casa Romantica on Pinterest, and after seeing the property, they wouldn’t settle on anywhere else.
“By having our wedding at Casa Romantica with family and friends from all over the world in attendance, we got just that. It really can’t get any better,” Patrycja and Jeff said.
The couple wanted a very natural yet elegant style, just like Casa Romantica itself, for their wedding. They chose ivory and grey, with glamorous gold accents, to pair with eucalyptus greenery.
They kept the ceremony décor simple and chic so that guests were not distracted from their special moment. White flower petals lined the aisle and matched perfectly with all-white bouquets and soft gray bridesmaid dresses.
“Our first look had to be the best moment of the whole day,” remembers Patrycja. “Once I saw Jeff, all of my stress went away.”
Their dining area was set with round tables covered in crisp white linens. The gold place settings and chairs were a perfect way to add warmth and elegance while the white and green centerpieces matched the natural beauty of the open-air courtyard.
The couple incorporated several Polish wedding customs that Patrycja’s family led.
One tradition is that the newlyweds are greeted with offerings by both sets of parents upon their arrival to the reception. The first offering is a symbolic gift of bread and salt, which the new couple eats in front of their guests. The bread is offered so that the bride and groom may never know hunger, while the salt is a reminder of life’s difficulties.
Following the bread and salt, the couple makes their first toast. They are presented with two glasses. One is filled with vodka, and the other is filled with water. They do not know which is which. The bride chooses a glass first, and the groom takes the other. They must drink together, and tradition says that whoever ends up drinking the glass of vodka will wear the pants in the marriage.
“Jeff got the shot of vodka!” Patrycja laughs.
Patrycja and Jeff’s wedding was absolutely stunning. It was a true reflection of how much they love each other, as well as every person who celebrated with them.
“Our special day could not have happened without the love and support of our families and friends,” say the couple.
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Vendors
Venue – Casa Romantica / Caterer – Iva Lee’s / Rentals – Signature Party Rentals / Cake – It’s All About The Cake / Flowers – Le Petit Jardin / DJ – Epic Sound & Lighting / Photo – Heather Anderson Photography / Video – Love Is Cinema / Makeup – Kat Valencia / Hair – Tori Johnson / Dress – Casablanca Bridal
